Congresswoman Waters Applauds House Passage of the Violence Against Women Act

Statement

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) released the following statement today after the House passage of the bi-partisan Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization bill:

"As a co-sponsor of the strong bi-partisan Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization bill, I am pleased that my colleagues came together to reauthorize this critical piece of legislation today. This passage comes after a dangerous Republican VAWA substitute that rolled back essential protections in the bi-partisan bill failed in the House yesterday. Today's vote is a victory for women and the entire nation. The victims of domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual assault had waited long enough."

"Since its enactment, VAWA has had a strong history of uniting lawmakers with the common purpose of protecting survivors of domestic violence-- as it should be. Protecting women from violence should be above partisan politics. Throughout California and the country, thousands of Americans who fall victim to domestic violence, human trafficking, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking no longer have to live in fear because of important victim protections under this law.

"This bipartisan House-passed bill significantly strengthens the ability of the Federal Government, the States, law enforcement, and service providers to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. It also includes provisions to ensure that all victims of domestic violence receive the protection they need -- including providing new protections, based on findings from experts in the field, for tribal members, immigrants and members of the LGBT community.

"I commend my colleagues and those who have worked tirelessly to get this legislation reauthorized, which will now be signed into law by President Obama. This legislation will make a real difference in the lives of women, children, and families by providing them with vital protection against abuse and will ensure that law enforcement has the essential tools to combat violence."